Dear FlyLady,

I am pampering myself with a Christmas tree just for me and the DC (Dear Cat).

I’m a middle school teacher and single.  This time of year is always incredibly busy and stressful at school.  Last year, I let myself get completely focused on work. I didn’t take care of myself, I told myself I was too busy to clean, and my apartment stayed a disaster from Thanksgiving until Christmas. I didn’t put up a tree because I thought “It’s just me.” I couldn’t enjoy the holiday season at all.

This year, I decided focus on my routines again this month and observe Advent–a season of longing and hope. I made it a priority to make space for me and my longing for a more peaceful and joyful life. I put together a very improvised and imperfect Advent wreath, and I put up a tree–on a weeknight!  I don’t have a lot of fancy ornaments, but it makes me smile every time I look at it!

Yesterday my landlord emailed to say pest control is coming through tomorrow.  In the past, I would have been stressed out and depressed out, trying to get the apartment presentable while also grading final exams.  Instead, thanks to your system, I spent about fifteen extra minutes getting things ready, and now I’m sitting down to relax and write a few cards by the tree.

Thanks! You have literally changed my life!

Getting off the Ground in Georgia

FlyLady Rebecca here: If you have Pampered yourself this month, send us an email to inspire other FlyBabies! Send an email to flylady@flylady.net with PAMPERED in the subject line. I will post it in the December Habit so keep a lookout for your testimonial!